by GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Arizona Christian University women’s basketball team (4-1) returned to the win column Tuesday night with a hard-fought 62-56 victory over the Ottawa University of Arizona Spirit (0-1) inside the ACU Events Center.
Thoughts from Coach:
After the win, Head Coach Rusty Rogers commented, “Well you know it’s always really good to get a W so that’s first and foremost, and finding different ways to get that “W”in the long run is going to pay off for this team. I thought I felt like we should’ve put the game away earlier, but then again you know that winning a game in a tight situation is always a great experience and you’ll learn from it. Our defense really solidified and kept us in it when our offense wasn’t doing anything, and we’ve really improved from last year so I’m really proud of our defense’s ability to get stops when we need them.”
Game Details:
ACU came out strong in the first half, outsourcing OUAZ by 10 points, 36-26 while also outshooting the Spirit from the field, 13-of-29 (.448) to 9-of-33 (.273). The second half was tightly contested, with OUAZ battling back to bring the score within two points late. Despite the comeback attempt by the Spirit, the Firestorm buckled down late and hit key free throws, eventually squeaking out the victory, 62-56.
Inside the Box Score:
- Des Gonzalez (Navajo): Double-double with 14 points and 16 rebounds
- Kirsten Shinske: 10 points, four rebounds, four assists, one steal
- Baylee Slaughter: 10 points, nine rebounds, two assists, one block
- Tee Watters: Eight points, four rebounds, two assists, one block
